UCSF

Introduction. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory condition associated with debilitating symptoms. Physical activity has been studied as a means of improving physical function and symptoms in adults with RA for over thirty years, however, rates of physical activity in RA patients remains below that of patients with other chronic diseases. Yoga has been gaining popularity nationally and may be an acceptable form of physical activity in this population. The primary aim of this dissertation was to describe the physical activity of yoga and its role in symptom management and physical function for adults with RA. A review of the literature, a quantitative study, and a qualitative study were performed to meet this dissertation aim.

Methods. In the first study a review of the literature was performed to survey the literature on physical activity interventions in adults with RA to determine which exercises were effective for improving physical function and symptoms in adults with RA. In the second study cross-sectional analysis of secondary data from 369 adults with RA was performed. This quantitative study investigated whether participation in yoga was associated with less RA symptomatology and better physical function scores in adults with RA compared to adults with RA who did not participate in yoga. The third study is a qualitative analysis exploring self-selected community yoga practice in adults with RA. This qualitative study used open-ended interview questions to explore benefits, barriers and facilitators of yoga practice.

Findings. The literature demonstrated that physical activities with an aerobic and strengthening component, like yoga, are effective for improvement in physical function and relief of pain, depression and fatigue. In the cross-sectional quantitative study yoga participation was associated with less pain and better physical function.

The qualitative exploration highlighted the dynamic nature of yoga as an appropriate physical activity for the dynamic needs of adults with RA. The yoga participants reported benefits of RA symptom relief and increased coping abilities.

Summary. Yoga is a dynamic exercise that is beneficial for symptom and physical function improvement. Investigations into practice components may improve yoga practice recommendations for adults with RA.